CBS News is at the center of growing controversy following a request by new editor-in-chief Bari Weiss for detailed feedback from its staff. Weiss, who began her role last week after her outlet, The Free Press, was acquired by Paramount CEO David Ellison, has asked CBS News employees to explain their daily duties and share their thoughts on what’s working and what isn’t within the organization.
Weiss’ Request Sparks Concerns
In an email sent to staffers on Friday, Weiss requested each member of CBS News to outline their work and contributions, including any projects they are most proud of. She also asked for candid feedback on areas that need improvement, expressing a desire to understand how employees spend their working hours and identify any “substandard” practices.
“I want to familiarize myself with you — and I want you to do the same with me — to know that we are aligned on achieving a shared vision for CBS News,” Weiss wrote. “Please be blunt — it will help me greatly.”
Guild Pushes Back
However, Weiss’ request has caused significant unease among staff, with the Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), which represents some CBS News employees, advising them not to respond until more clarity is provided. The Guild raised concerns about the purpose of the email and the potential implications for employees’ job security. In a memo obtained by Fox News, the Guild suggested that the request could be part of a broader agenda to evaluate and potentially restructure the newsroom, fueling fears of layoffs or discipline based on the feedback.
“We are aware that Bari Weiss sent an email asking CBS employees to provide information about their jobs and feedback to CBS News. Many of you have expressed concern to us about the purpose of the email, and we share those concerns,” the Guild wrote in its memo. The Guild is demanding further clarification from CBS News on several critical points, including:
- A list of who received Weiss’ email and who will have access to their responses
- Whether responses could lead to disciplinary actions, discharges, or layoffs
- What CBS plans to do with the feedback and if artificial intelligence will be used to analyze the responses
- Ensuring the process is non-discriminatory
Weiss’ Vision and Growing Scrutiny
Weiss’ arrival at CBS News has sparked media attention, particularly given her previous controversial role as a writer and editor at The New York Times. Her stance on press freedom, political neutrality, and her commitment to holding both political parties to equal scrutiny has drawn mixed reactions. While some view her as a breath of fresh air, others, particularly on the liberal side, have criticized her approach.
Her rise to prominence and subsequent appointment as editor-in-chief has garnered heavy criticism from figures such as HBO’s John Oliver, who dedicated a lengthy segment on his show Last Week Tonight to critique her. Weiss’ critics have voiced concerns over her perceived conservative leanings and the impact her leadership might have on CBS News’ editorial stance.
What Happens Next?
As of now, CBS News has not responded to inquiries about the Guild’s concerns or how it plans to handle the staff feedback. The tension between Weiss’ request for transparency and the Guild’s demand for more clarity creates an uncertain atmosphere within the newsroom.
With the deadline for staff responses fast approaching, the outcome of this situation could shape not only Weiss’ tenure at CBS News but also the future of the network’s editorial direction.
Closing Line
This story will be updated as more information becomes available regarding CBS News’ handling of the staff feedback and the response from the Writers Guild.
The post CBS News Faces Tensions Over Bari Weiss’ Request for Staff Feedback first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
